Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels
I have the privilege of being both a mother and a grandmother. Over the years, I have had opportunities to love and guide children as they develop. During these times, I have shared numerous instructions based on my love and concern for the child’s health, safety and personal growth. Eat your healthy food, do not run into the street, and be respectful or others are only a few of the directives that I have given. The little ones who were being instructed initially might be resistant, but most of the time when they realize that there is a deep love that is grounding these words, they learn to trust and follow the guidance given.
In today’s readings, we hear about God’s laws and how these laws are reasons for joy. Ezra is reading the laws of the Lord, and the people listening are weeping. Ezra encourages them saying that “today is holy to our LORD” and reminded them that “rejoicing in the LORD must be your strength.” The Israelites are being reminded that God’s laws are based on love and God’s covenant with the people. When they recognize this premise, they are called to trust God, follow God’s laws, and celebrate God’s care for their well-being.
Just like a child, we are called to trust in God and God’s ways. It is this humility that Jesus highlights in today’s gospel reading. Like a parent, God provides us guidance that allows us to flourish. Love of others (even our enemies), being peace-makers, caring for those on the margins, and dying to ourselves in service to others are only a few of the directives that we have been given from Jesus. It is when we can humbly accept and follow these calls that we become like children and become great in the Kingdom of heaven. Just like the Israelites, we are encouraged to not be sad or burdened by these commandments. When we recognize that following Jesus and His ways bring us to the fullness of life here on earth, then we should rejoice. As disciples of Christ, we experience God’s love and this helps us recognize we are God’s children.
Today, spend time praying for all children that they may receive loving care, have access to the needs for a healthy life, and the guidance that allows them to flourish. May we learn from their childlike trust, and rejoice knowing that we are children of God who have been created in love. May our lives as Jesus’ disciples bring this love to the world, so all may be welcomed into God’s Kingdom.
—Marylynn Herchline